The Marathon Des Sables is a race that's as much about managing kit and logistics as it is physical fitness and mental toughness. And prepping to run across the Sahara is a big undertaking that can be a tad daunting. Most runners are stepping into the unknown, running for the first time with a full pack, in the heat with that sand to contend with. The Run Testers' own resident ultra runner, Kieran, ran the race back in 2015 coming 91st overall and has since finished top Brit at the Half Marathon Des Sables in Fuerteventura. So he knows a thing or two about how to survive the desert.

In this video he shares his top Marathon des Sables kit tips, from which shoes to choose, to how you can avoid your own feet ending up like those hellish blister photos you see. He shares what worked for him, what he learnt getting ready for – and running – the 250km across the Sahara. Hit play for some Marathon des Sables finisher insights that might help you conquer the dunes.

MARATHON DES SABLES KIT TIPS: JUMP STRAIGHT IN:

0:00 – Intro
1:40 – What is the Marathon des Sables?
2:38 – Tip #1: Best shoes for the Marathon des Sables
5:24 – Tip #2: Why vaseline is your enemy
6:04 – Tip #3: How to beat the chafe
7:17 – Tip #4: How to avoid blisters
10:26 – Tip #5: How to keep sand out
12:52 – Tip #6: How to cook light
14:41 – Tip #7: How to pack your food to save space
15:56 – Tip #8: The best sleeping bag and mat – how light can I go?
18:04 – Tip #9: Why you should leave your phone at home
19:14 – Tip #10: The best backpack and how to make it better

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